The past few weeks my studio has been silent—not much creativity springing forth. My hands have been busy knitting socks as that is a portable project—when your brain is occupied by illness, there is no room for anything else. Yes, it should be a time to expand your thought waves. Alas. Our son has been seriously ill—in hospital then in rehab, then home—he’s been bedridden and accompanied by home care givers, visiting doctors, nurses, PT/OT—our visits have been every day and feeling helpless to make him better. There was need to “perk” myself up, I rummaged through some boxes stashed in studio closet—out of sight, out of mind!
In this one box, from 2002 project, there was “Basket Balls”! Years ago, I wove plenty of these gems; now, years gone, given to friends and family. One little ball was begun—the box contains plenty of Mizuhikie fiber cords, 2” Styrofoam balls, decorative pins included. Packaged up for future days! Those days have arrived!!
twinning again! Yes! I’ve not forgotten the technique!
You can still purchase the special cords; even found a few ‘basketballs’ for sale.
Mizuhiki is a decorative cord made by rolling Japanese paper into a rope shape and hardening it, and its name comes from the fact that water-based glue is used to harden it.
Made by bundling colorful paper strings in red and white, gold and silver, etc., they are not just decorative in Japan's gift-giving culture, but also serve to convey thoughtfulness and wishes to the recipient.
